With a string of rocket launches nearly 60 miles to the north, hundreds of industry leaders, scientists and educators gathered on Florida’s Space Coast last week to assess the state’s foothold in semiconductor production.
Hosted by the Florida Semiconductor Institute and tech giant/defense contractor L3Harris, the 2025 Florida Semiconductor Summit analyzed a boundless industry that is struggling to keep up with demand and talent.
“Two themes stood out—momentum and opportunity,” said David Arnold, the George Kirkland Leadership professor at UF and director of the Florida Semiconductor Institute. “It’s clear that Florida is an established semiconductor powerhouse, but we also have capacity for significant growth. This summit marks a milestone in our state’s evolution, a turning point for acceleration and, ultimately, impact.”